Bhavnagar travel guide

Bhavnagar, India

By the Travel Wiki editorial team

Bhavnagar

Introduction

You can explore the rich history of Bhavnagar, a city located in the Indian state of Gujarat. Founded in 1723 by Bhavsinhji Gohil, the area served as the capital of the Bhavnagar State, a princely state before its integration into the Indian Union.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by understanding the local context and cultural nuances of the region.

Getting there

You can reach the city by rail, with connections available from Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Surat, Vadodara, and various cities throughout Saurashtra. The main railway station serving the area is Bhavnagar Terminus.

Alternatively, you can fly into the city via Bhavnagar Airport. For those traveling by road, many locals prefer private buses, as the region features some of the best roads in India. Local travel within the city is supported by a state-owned bus service operating from the Panwadi area.

Getting around

You can navigate the city using several modes of transport, though local options are limited in quality. For your convenience, hiring a taxi is the most straightforward way to travel.

Alternatively, you can find transportation within the city and nearby villages by utilizing rickshaws, bicycles, motorcycles, and private autos.

Where to stay

You can choose from a variety of accommodations that cater to different preferences and styles of travel. For those seeking a sense of history and grandeur, you can stay at the Nilambag Palace Hotel, a heritage palace hotel that served as the residence of the Maharajas of Bhavnagar.

Other options include:

Food & drink

Savor a wide variety of regional flavors while exploring the local culinary scene. You can enjoy traditional South Indian dishes, Punjabi vegetarian cuisine, or a Gujarati Thali that rivals those found elsewhere in the region. For those seeking local specialties, try the popular Pav Gathiya or the spicy Tikha Ganthiya served with bread slices and tamarind chatani. If you prefer non-vegetarian options, head to the Handiyavad area where dishes are served in Muslim style.

Refresh your palate with a glass of Lassi or sweet buttermilk, which varies in taste depending on the location. During the cooler months, seek out a hot milk shake near Ghogha Circle. While hard drinks are not permitted in the state, you can find fruit beers available locally.

What to see and do

Explore the local landmarks, starting with the modern Shri Swaminarayan Mandir on Waghawadi Road. You can also visit the Takhteswar Temple, a white marble structure built on a hill that features intricate stone craftsmanship and offers an aerial view of the city. Other notable sites include Gaurishankar Lake (Bor Talav) and Victoria Park. If you prefer a stroll through the city's infrastructure, several traffic circles such as Crescent Circle, Ghogha Circle, and Mahila Collage Circle feature small gardens in their centers.

Engage with the local culture by seeking out residents playing Chopat, a variation of a traditional dice game also known as Aman Chache. You can join locals in public spaces to play this "Cross and Circle" game and experience the friendly atmosphere of the community. For those interested in spiritual study, you can visit the Adhyatmik Sadhana Kendra in Umarala Town.

When to go

You can experience Bhavnagar's monsoon-driven climate across three distinct seasons. If you prefer more comfortable conditions, visit during the winter months from November to February when the weather is warm and dry with low humidity.

During the dry season from March through mid-June, you will encounter sweltering heat as the temperature builds toward the peak of summer. From mid-June through October, the monsoon season brings hot and humid conditions with heavy rains.

Three days in Bhavnagar

Day one, you arrive in Bhavnagar and settle into your accommodations. You can choose to stay at various local options such as the Nilambag Palace Hotel or other nearby establishments like Hotel Swagat, Jubilee Hotels, Shital Guest House, The Hotel Mini, Hotel White Rose, Vrindavan Plaza Hotel, Bluehill Hotel, Hotel Apollo, Hotel Mausam, or Hotel Sun.

Day two, you explore the local area and experience the culture of Saurashtra. You can prepare for your journey by visiting nearby hubs like Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Surat, or Vadodara if you choose to travel further, or stay within the city to enjoy the atmosphere of the region where Bhavsinhji Gohil founded the state.

Day three, you spend your final day in the city. You can savor a variety of local flavors, including a Gujarati Thali, South Indian dishes, or Punjabi cuisine before your departure from the area.

About this place